NUS spotlights research strengths in sustainability and environmental innovation at SIWW 2026
NUS took centre stage at the Singapore International Water Week (SIWW) 2026, with the NUS Environmental Research Institute (NERI) leading the charge. From 16 to 18 June 2026, at the Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Centre, the University highlighted its pioneering work in sustainability and environmental innovation.
Anchored by the theme, “Innovative Environmental Solutions for Climate Resilience and Mitigation”, the NUS booth brought to life the University’s expertise with interactive research exhibits, digital posters, videos and technology-sharing sessions. Through these engaging displays, NUS reaffirmed its commitment to advancing impactful solutions for pressing environmental and water-related challenges.
Deepening international collaboration in water research, education, and innovation
A key highlight was the signing of two Memoranda of Understanding with Beijing Normal University’s College of Water Sciences and Nanjing Normal University, held at the NUS booth on 17 June 2026. This significant milestone is an important step in strengthening international collaboration in water-related research, education and innovation.
These partnerships will create new opportunities for joint research, academic exchange and knowledge sharing, while further reinforcing NERI’s commitment to advancing impactful environmental solutions for the future.
NERI and partners launch ceramic membrane demonstration plant
SIWW 2026 also marked the official commencement of operations of the Ceramic Membrane Demonstration Plant at Tuas Desalination Plant. The facility, a collaboration between NERI, national water agency PUB and Meiden Singapore Pte Ltd (MSL), will provide valuable insights into ceramic membrane performance under real operating conditions. It will also generate operational data to assess the potential of ceramic membrane technologies for seawater desalination.
To support informed decision-making and accelerate the deployment of more energy-efficient and resilient desalination systems, NERI hosted a workshop on “Ceramic Membranes for Pre-Treatment of Seawater Desalination” during SIWW 2026. Led by Professor Hu Jiangyong, Deputy Director of NERI, co-organised by Dr Tai Zhong Sheng from NERI, and co-hosted with Jonathan Clement, Global Director of JAC Water, the workshop brought together experts from academia and industry, including Mr Daniel Teo from PUB, Dr Hiroshi Noguchi from MSL and Dr Christian Volker Goebbert from Nanostone Water.
During the workshop, the speakers shared valuable insights on ceramic membrane technologies for seawater desalination, including operational challenges, achievements, demonstration projects and future developments. Discussions also explored the impact of algal blooms on desalination operations and the role of ceramic membrane pre-treatment in enhancing resilience under challenging feedwater conditions.
Public lecture and panel discussion on water safety
In conjunction with SIWW 2026, NERI and the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering under NUS’ College of Design and Engineering (CDE) jointly hosted a public lecture by Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize 2026 Laureate Professor Joan B. Rose from Michigan State University on 18 June 2026 at NUS.
Prof Rose delivered an insightful public lecture titled, “Risky Business: The Art and Science of Safe Water” where she highlighted the continuing global challenge of water contamination, from long-standing threats such as cholera to emerging pathogens, and emphasised the importance of Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment in integrating science, engineering, management and policy to support better decision-making.
The lecture was followed by a panel discussion on water safety, public health, resilience and sustainability in the face of global change, chaired by Professor Karina Gin, Acting Head of the Department of Civil and Engineering at NUS CDE.
SIWW 2026 provided an exciting platform for NUS to build new collaborations, showcase its latest research, and demonstrate the impact of its work to a global audience. The University looks forward to building on these new partnerships and continuing to advance innovative solutions for a more sustainable future.
